A new study by Deloitte has found more and more consumers are having their purchasing decisions based on online reviews. The survey found that nearly two-thirds (62%) of consumers read reviews online. And of those, 82% report that they have helped them decide on what product to buy, either a different product than they had thought about or confirming their original thoughts.
The survey also found Gen Y was really in love with product reviews, with 68% checking them out. Other findings included personal electronics being a favorite for people to read online reviews as 39% said they were shopping for these products and were influenced by reviews. And showcasing the power of word-of-mouth, 69% of those who read reviews share what they read with friends and family.
So for all of us in the PR world, this is just a nice reminder to always wow and amaze your clients with creative and remarkable campaign ideas, but don't forget the basics, like a strong product review program.